Festival Features Scenic Coastal Routes
The Great Ocean Road Running Festival is set to take place on 16th-17th May, drawing thousands of runners and visitors to the picturesque south west coastline in Victoria. This annual event, presented by Melrose, has become a staple for the region, offering participants a chance to experience one of Australia's most scenic routes.
Celebrating its 21st year, the festival offers a unique opportunity to run along the Great Ocean Road. The route will be closed to traffic between Lorne and Skenes Creek on Sunday, 17th May, allowing runners to enjoy uninterrupted views of the coastline.
Headlining this year's festival is the Ecosa Ultra Marathon. Runners will tackle a demanding 60km course stretching from Lorne to the Apollo Bay Hotel. This race provides an immersive coastal experience for endurance enthusiasts, who are drawn to the challenge and beauty of the event.
Although the Ultra Marathon, Marathon, and Half Marathon events are sold out, there are still opportunities to participate in shorter distances. Options include the 12km Trail Run, 14km Paradise Run, 6km Run, 5km and 10km Great Ocean Road Walks, and the 1.5km Kids Gallop, catering to runners of all levels.
Festival Attracts Global Enthusiasts
Over 10,000 runners are expected to attend the festival, highlighting its status as a popular weekend getaway for athletes from Australia and around the globe. MARI, which also oversees the Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival, organizes this event, ensuring a world-class experience for all participants.
Event Director Brad King emphasised the uniqueness of the festival, stating, "This is a rare opportunity to experience the Great Ocean Road in a way that isn’t possible at any other time of year. When the road is fully closed to traffic, runners can take in uninterrupted coastal views all the way from Lorne to Apollo Bay."
In addition to running events, the festival offers a variety of activities including glamping, yoga, live music, and kite flying. These activities make the festival an appealing experience for participants and visitors alike, offering more than just a race.
For those interested in last-minute participation, limited spots in shorter races can be secured by visiting the official festival website. The Great Ocean Road Running Festival promises a memorable experience for all who attend.
